Decision Awaited on Second Casino License for Philadelphia

(Larry Spector, an attorney representing a synagogue and two schools, testifies in January 2014 before the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board in Harrisburg. Photo by Tony Romeo)

By Tony Romeo

HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) — Nearly two months after final arguments were presented by the applicants, there’s still no decision from gambling regulators on Philadelphia’s second casino license.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board chairman indicated that after final oral arguments in the application process, February 26th, he hoped there would be a decision about the Philadelphia casino license within 60 days.

But now, as the end of that window approaches in a few days, there is no decision yet.

Board spokesman Doug Harbach cautions that that timeframe was never set in stone:

“This was a goal to try to move the ball forward,” he told KYW Newsradio this morning. “The board continues to talk about it. This is an important decision since it is the last license for Philadelphia and the last standalone in the state, so they’re simply not going to be rushed.”

The gaming control board consists of seven members but a simple majority is insufficient to award a license. Four of the seven members are appointed by legislative leaders, and each of those appointees has de facto veto power.